I was more looking for some input on what to troubleshoot as I seem to have exhausted all the main components. My '82 a is genuine Harley, not an AMF bike. And, yes there is gas in the tank and the petcock is in the proper position.

It starts and runs fine, but when I ride it for an extended time 5min or more, it just quits (no spark), it seems to run longer without the point cover on. Also, it may be unrelated, but the Tach now bounces around like crazy too.

-Thanks

 

Yes like an allen bolt, without the hex head, or any head at all for that matter.

 

Tachs (at least on older cars) were connected to the ignition coil. You may have a coil issue if all other electricals are working. After it quits, check for spark. Sometimes a coil going bad will work initially but overheat and stop suddenly. Wheneverything cools down it works again. As for the bolts, can we get a picture? maybe we could advise on the correct tool if we saw the hardware.

 

I have replaced the coil with a brand new dyna coil. Here are some pics of my bolt problem.

 

They look like the bolt covers you can buy to make them look purdy. Are they just covers? Will they pry off?

 

Good call. That's exactly what they were.

 

Bolt problem - Those are just "make-prettys" - covers that should pop or pry off.

Electrical problems on a 20+ year old bike? That's hard to believe!

Sounds like something crapping after it heats up. I take it you have no wiring diagram? You really need to cop a service manual w/diagrams. Then start eliminating all the "points of interest" from the battery to the spark plugs, one "point" at a time. You can run temporary wire to bypass the ignition switch, the ignition circuit breaker, the kill switch, etc. Even the wiring is suspect at this point.

 

I still have a 1972 500cc Honda, all original except tires, it still runs good.

 

I took the cover off the ignition module down at the crank and just rode it for 15 min with no issues. I do have a service manual with a wiring diagram. I don't suspect the kill switch since I have never had a problem with it. I wonder if my bike is running hot.

 

I understand it's a 27 year old bike, however it is in great shape and only has 22k on it. The previous owner took care of it. I bought a bike this old because I liked the personality, not to get off on the cheap, however I do want to feel like I can ride it anywhere.